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Reconciling the benefits of taking aspirin (ASA) with the possible side effects leaves many seniors unsure whether they should continue doctor recommended aspirin therapy. Daily aspirin can significantly reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke, especially for those who already have experienced symptoms of heart disease.

As people age, they become more vulnerable to age related macular degeneration disease, which can unfortunately progress suddenly and with astonishing speed in some cases. Age related macular degeneration (AMD) occurs when the macula, the central part of the retina, within the eye begins to deteriorate. The macula is vital to clear vision because it is the part of the eye that has the highest visual acuity. It is made up of light-sensitive tissue just like the rest of the retina but has its own unique characteristics.

A recent study recently published in the American Journal of Ophthalmology has evaluated the question of whether a patient’s vision can be improved following surgery to reduce intraocular pressure. Glaucoma is a group of diseases that result in a characteristic pattern of damage to the optic nerve and peripheral visual field.

The Verion Image Guided System is redefining the way cataract surgeries are performed. By enabling a level of precision not previously possible, the Verion system minimizes errors and increases efficiency in cataract surgery. The innovative technology utilized in this state-of-the-art equipment optimizes the level of accuracy possible by integrating the steps of imaging, planning, and guiding.

A recent study published in the July, 2014 issue of the Journal of Diabetic Complications evaluated the connection between diabetic retinopathy and other severe diabetic health risks, such as cardiovascular disease and kidney disease. The ACCORD (Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes trial was a large clinical trial of adults with established type 2 diabetes who were at especially high risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study provided longitudinal data to evaluate the value of the onset of diabetic retinopathy in predicting the risk of heart disease and kidney disease.

Canaloplasty is a state-of-the-art surgical technique that is undergoing testing for its effectiveness in treating glaucoma at Eye Physicians of Long Beach. By taking advantage of the eye’s existing drainage system, canaloplasty is designed to relieve pressure on the optic nerve that is caused by glaucoma. If left untreated, this pressure results in eyesight loss, potentially to the point of blindness.

At Eye Physicians of Long Beach (EPLB), we always strive to deliver superior vision outcomes to patients undergoing cataract removal. Our goal is always to reduce or eliminate dependence on glasses following cataract surgery.

Ocular toxicity resulting from use of prescription drugs can cause a variety of eye issues, including vision loss and cataract formation. Hydroxychloroquine toxicity is a specific form that is a risk to those using chloroquine based medications for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

Research published looking at patients who were part of the Australian Heart Eye Study (AHES) group suggests a connection between Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) and Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). This discovery may be helpful in improving early detection of AMD in patients with known histories of CAD. Patients who suffer from either disease can benefit from their doctors’ understanding of the connection between these diseases. It may also lead to a better understanding of AMD.

As medical marijuana becomes more readily available, physicians find themselves in the difficult position of determining which patients have a legitimate need for the deregulated drug. Though marijuana has long been lauded as an effective treatment for glaucoma, there is no evidence that it can benefit the course of the disease.

Almost 20% of Americans over the age of 40 have cataracts according to the Centers for Disease Control. A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye and is the leading cause of vision loss and reversible blindness. Those who suffer from cataracts may experience blurred or doubled vision, difficulty with contrast as well as problems with color and depth perception. Cataracts do not go away on their own and can be removed with a laser. But, there may also be modifiable risk factors that can increase your risk of developing cataracts. Lack of exercise may be one of those risks factors you can change in order to decrease your risk of developing a cataract.

For decades, cataract surgery has been successfully performed to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with a clear one. With over 3 million cataract surgeries performed each year in the US alone, it is one of the most common surgeries in the world. Manual cataract surgeries are highly successful in returning a patient’s eyesight to its pre-cataract state. A recent article published in the Journal of Refractive surgery showed that laser cataract surgery could be even more beneficial in improving eyesight and preventing complications from surgery.

Improve Your Vision and Quality of Life with this Innovative Surgery at EPLB.
Eye Physicians of Long Beach (EPLB) is one of the first practices in the United States to offer this type of procedure, and we are proud to bring this innovative technology to our local community.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the deterioration of the macula as we age. The macula is the tissue that lines the back of the eye. It is part of the retina and is sensitive to light, making it a vital component of vision. Aging causes this breakdown of delicate tissue, but can our weight exacerbate the problem?

Created on: Monday, October 06, 2014Author: Eye Physicians of Long Beach

Have you heard of this term called “Dry macular degeneration”? It is a chronic disease which affects the eyes. It causes a loss in vision exactly in the center. The macula happens to be in the middle of retina and is the layer of the tissue which is on the inside of the eyeballs. And when it deteriorates, this condition appears. This problem could occur in one eye or both the eyes.

The eyelid region is one of the most common sites for skin cancers. In fact, skin cancers of the eyelid, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma, account for five to 10 percent of all skin cancers.
According to the National Cancer Institute, 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer.

Tis the season for gift giving and what better way to show your loved ones you care than by giving them the gift of sunglasses. Living in California, we love that the sun shines year around but we should also be aware of the effects the sun has on our eyes.

Created on: Wednesday, July 17, 2013Author: Eye Physicians of Long Beach

This is my second year anniversary working at Eye Physicians of Long Beach and I would like to offer up some thoughts. After working at the Doheny Eye Institute for almost a decade the thought of making a job change was absolutely terrifying to me. I want to to take this opportunity to thank Drs. Martinez and Donovan for inviting me to join the family at EPLB. I especially want to thank all the staff at EPLB for making my transition so smooth and painless. I truly could not have done this without all of you.

Created on: Wednesday, May 29, 2013Author: Eye Physicians of Long Beach

Hard work pays off.
This is something we all believe in, and here at Eye Physicians of Long Beach, we are very proud to have been named by The Press Telegram as the Best in Laser Eye Surgery in Long Beach.

When it comes to maintaining the health of our eyes conditions such as cataract, glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetes frequently receive the most attention. What most people overlook is that front surface of the eyeball and cornea must remain moist to function properly. Our eyelids protect the surface of the eye and ensure that the eye remains lubricated and comfortable. Occasionally, the very eyelid that is supposed to protect our eye fails us and can cause extreme discomfort and even vision loss.

Recently I have had a number of patients referred to me by their neurologist for treatment of their visual loss from pseudotumor cerebri. The first question that many of the relatives ask the patient is: “what is pseudotumor cerebri?”

Watering eye (epiphora or tearing) can be an extremely annoying problem. Constant overflow of the tears onto the face can cause breakdown of the skin resulting in irritation and even rashes of the eyelid skin. In addition, tearing can also cause distortion of the vision sometimes making driving difficult and even dangerous. Tearing can develop at any age. It is, however, more common among babies aged less than 12 months, and adults over the age of 60 years. The condition may present symptoms in just one or both eyes.
There are many causes of epiphora, however for the purposes of this blog we will focus on the most common etiology typically found in patients over the age of 60.

Created on: Monday, October 08, 2012Author: Eye Physicians of Long Beach

Dr. Carlos Martinez specializes in correcting vision problems using laser surgery. He has made several trips to Central America to donate his time, skill and technology to some of the area's poorest communities.

These are exciting times in the field of ophthalmology. Many new technological advancements and improvements to existing technologies make the future of eye care and eye surgery exciting for both patients and surgeons alike.

Every week in practice a new evolution comes to me. This week I was stunned by the number of patients that have came in for Botox treatment without really understanding what it is that Botox does or what Botox can do.

Interestingly enough Botox has been available since approximately 1980 for treatment of strabismus or crossed eyes in children.

In a recent article in 2009 Ahmed K, et al wrote “increasingly there is a demand for professional accountability through re-certification because of concerns about professional negligence and increased awareness of medical errors. The authors described the process of re-certification in different geographical regions and discussed the role of current who was used to re-certify cardiovascular specialist and in particular how their use can contribute to the requirements of patient care.”

Created on: Thursday, October 13, 2011Author: Eye Physicians of Long Beach

I can’t see up close- Presbyopia
Presbyopia will affect every person. No one can escape it but, don’t despair just yet. It usually affects people above 40. It is the result of the aging of the lens which makes it more rigid and unable to flex or focus on objects that are up close. As a result, people experience blurred near vision when reading, working at the computer or otherwise doing near work.
Presbyopia cannot be prevented but it can be treated. Almost half of all Americans are age 40 and older. All of these people are experiencing or about to experience presbyopia. Presbyopia is a refractive error and your ophthalmologist can help you find the treatment that best fits your needs.
Symptoms and Signs
In the initial stages, presbyopia forces the individual to hold things further away when reading. The affected individual may also need additional lightning to be able to read. When the person reads for a long period of time, they may feel strain, pain or feel fatigued.
Common symptoms of presbyopia are:
• Difficulty reading fine print, particularly in low light conditions
• Eyestrain when reading for long periods
• Blurred near vision
• Difficulty transitioning between viewing distances from close to far
• The feeling that your arms have become "too short" to hold reading material at a comfortable distance

Created on: Monday, October 10, 2011Author: Eye Physicians of Long Beach

Having LASIK is an exciting and important decision that can offer you a level of newfound freedom and the ability to live your life in a whole new way with less dependence on glasses and contacts! With Eye Physicians of Long Beach, that dream can become your reality. Your consultation is the first step toward achieving the freedom from glasses or contacts you are looking for.

Created on: Saturday, October 01, 2011Author: Eye Physicians of Long Beach

Why put off to tomorrow what you can do today? Regain your youthful vision now, so you can enjoy it that much longer.
Cataract surgery has an excellent track record and is highly successful. When vision deteriorates, and any of one’s daily activities begin to suffer, it may be time to consider surgery. The benefits outweigh the risks when the decision is guided by your surgeon. And regaining youthful vision sooner, rather than later, is the biggest benefit of them all.

Graves' disease and the associated eye changes (thyroid related eye disease-TED) can be frustrating for affected patients. The eye symptoms usually occur around the same time as the onset of the thyroid dysfunction. Many patients with thyroid abnormalities will only be affected mildly by the eye disease. Approximately 5% of the patients with TED will have severe disease that can cause vision loss and blindness. Although the incidence of eye disease associated with thyroid dysfunction is higher and more severe in smokers, there is no way to predict which patients will be affected.

Created on: Tuesday, August 30, 2011Author: Eye Physicians of Long Beach

Several articles have recently been published that support the conclusion that, in the year 2011, you are better off with all laser LASIK than with LASIK using a microkeratome. 1-4 Both procedures are relatively safe and very successful but all laser LASIK offers the safest, most precise treatment of hyperopia (farsightedness), myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism.

Created on: Friday, August 12, 2011Author: Eye Physicians of Long Beach

It’s that time of the year again! Time for outdoor fun in the sun. It’s summertime! As we head outside to enjoy the warm weather and the sun’s rays, we must also remember to protect ourselves from too much of a good thing. Sun protection of the skin with sunscreen, hats and umbrellas are part of the summer routine, but we can’t forget to protect our eyes.
The sun’s rays are ultraviolet (UV) which can be dangerous to our eyes. Just as too much UV light can damage our skin, our eyes also have an outer ‘skin’ called the conjunctiva, that can be suffer from long term exposure to UV rays. Thickening of the layer of the ‘white’ area of the eye produces a pinguecula. In some cases the thickened conjunctiva can grow onto the more central ‘colored’ part of the eye, the cornea. This is called a pterygium. With extensive growth toward the pupil, vision can become blurred.
Accelerated growth of a cataract, the clouding of the lens of the eye, can also be associated with UV exposure. Macular degeneration has also been linked to UV rays.

Created on: Friday, August 12, 2011Author: Eye Physicians of Long Beach

Today is my one month anniversary working at Eye Physicians of Long Beach and I would like to offer up some thoughts. After working at the Doheny Eye Institute for almost a decade the thought of making a job change was absolutely terrifying to me. I want to to take this opportunity to thank Drs. Martinez and Donovan for inviting me to join the family at EPLB. I especially want to thank all the staff at EPLB for making my transition so smooth and painless. I truly could not have done this without all of you.